In most U.S. states, Mega Millions ticket sales close a little while before the 11:00 p.m. drawing, but the exact cutoff varies by jurisdiction. Common cutoffs range from about 9:45 p.m. to 10:45 p.m. local time on drawing nights (Tuesday and Friday). Since deadlines differ by state and can also depend on in-person vs online sales, it’s best to check your specific state lottery’s page or contact an authorized retailer for the precise cutoff on the night you plan to purchase. Key points to know:
- Draws occur twice weekly: Tuesday and Friday at 11:00 p.m. Eastern Time (local draw times may differ by time zone).
- Ticket purchase cutoff is before the drawing and varies by state; many states close sales around 9:45 p.m. to 10:45 p.m. local time on draw nights.
- Online or retailer options may have separate deadlines or processing times; some jurisdictions also offer subscriptions with different cutoff rules.
If you’d like, provide your state or locality, and the exact date you plan to buy, and I’ll give you the precise cutoff time for that jurisdiction.
